Decision Dilemma: Keeping or Parting Ways with Our 2019 Expedition Max – Seeking Insight and Opinions

[BlakeMAX2019]

Seeking input on whether to keep our 2019 Expedition Max with 44k miles. Acquired new in Nov. 2019 for $54k after an $11k discount and 0% financing $0 Down. It meets family needs as we have 5 kids but has a harsh ride, frequent interior issues, and poor reliability, including a several rebuilt rear ends, Cam Phaser tear down, and a full transmission rebuild.

Despite only owing $14k at 0%, the wife wants to replace it. Considering keeping it for myself but concerned about long-term reliability compared to my reliable Toyota history. Have had several with 200kmi+ with zero issues.

Interested in opinions, especially regarding long term reliability of the EcoBoost and 10 speed drivetrain?

Incidentally, she’s looking at a Toyota Sequoia but at $80k, even as a longtime Toyota guy, I just don’t see the value there.

Thank you for your input!

 

[LokiWolf]

The 3rd row space in the new Sequoia is TERRIBLE! Unlike ford, they transferred the Solid axle straight from the Tundra to the Sequoia. Ford wins hands down just for that. The Expy can actually fit regular size adults in the 3rd row. Otherwise I would consider it myself.

 

[Soliyou]

I would keep it and save the $$. This gen of Ecoboost is great after the cam phaser update. I prefer it to newer ones since it doesn’t have the EGR system.

The 10 speed may fail again in 40k miles if you got the old version of the CDF drum. For longevity consider shifting manually, using sport mode, or changing shift calibration. Anyways, you may spend another $5k in transmission service instead of $80k to prevent it.

Plus, all manufacturers now use the same suppliers. Newer Toyotas are also having HVAC issues that require tearing the dash, drivetrain issues, etc. They are not built like the old ones.

 

[LokiWolf]

I would keep it and save the $$. This gen of Ecoboost is great after the cam phaser update. I prefer it to newer ones since it doesn’t have the EGR system.

The 10 speed may fail again in 40k miles if you got the old version of the CDF drum. For longevity consider shifting manually, using sport mode, or changing shift calibration. Anyways, you may spend another $5k in transmission service instead of $80k to prevent it.

Plus, all manufacturers now use the same suppliers. Newer Toyotas are also having HVAC issues that require tearing the dash, drivetrain issues, etc. They are not built like the old ones.

Spot on!

 

[Hellwig]

Seeking input on whether to keep our 2019 Expedition Max with 44k miles. Acquired new in Nov. 2019 for $54k after an $11k discount and 0% financing $0 Down. It meets family needs as we have 5 kids but has a harsh ride, frequent interior issues, and poor reliability, including a several rebuilt rear ends, Cam Phaser tear down, and a full transmission rebuild.

Despite only owing $14k at 0%, the wife wants to replace it. Considering keeping it for myself but concerned about long-term reliability compared to my reliable Toyota history. Have had several with 200kmi+ with zero issues.

Interested in opinions, especially regarding long term reliability of the EcoBoost and 10 speed drivetrain?

If I were you, I would purchase Ford ESP and keep the vehicle. Your vehicle is a great deal financially. From the design of the wheels, it seems yours is King Ranch. Nowadays, my 2024 XLT Max costed me a little over 70K with 6k off MSRP. I had to purchase it coz I did need a hauler for six people.

 

[Mediamonkey11]

Theoretically if you’ve had the trans and phasers done, then you’re left with a perception of unreliability and some interior issues you mention. The new Toyotas, given having a perception of reliability, are still a question mark. As mentioned above, if the 3rd row is used even ever so often, I’d get an extended warranty and keep the expedition, 80k at current rates is NOT cheap, you’ve got a much better deal financially as you sit currently. But, you’ll just have to weigh yall’s perception vs potential reality

 

[Hellwig]

Theoretically if you’ve had the trans and phasers done, then you’re left with a perception of unreliability and some interior issues you mention. The new Toyotas, given having a perception of reliability, are still a question mark. As mentioned above, if the 3rd row is used even ever so often, I’d get an extended warranty and keep the expedition, 80k at current rates is NOT cheap, you’ve got a much better deal financially as you sit currently. But, you’ll just have to weigh yall’s perception vs potential reality

I actually tried the third row on a new generation Sequoia, and then realized it fits my 6 years old only. My 10 years old would feel uncomfortable on the bench. if anyone tows frequently, new sequoia is not a good choice because of the short wheelbase and soft suspension. I suggest anyone wants to tow with it purchasing the sport package to make the suspension a little more stiff

 

[dlcorbett]

If I were you, I would purchase Ford ESP and keep the vehicle. Your vehicle is a great deal financially. From the design of the wheels, it seems yours is King Ranch. Nowadays, my 2024 XLT Max costed me a little over 70K with 6k off MSRP. I had to purchase it coz I did need a hauler for six people.

His is an xlt with 20 in wheels. You can tell by wheels and taillight design.

As far as replacing it, it depends on what you need. Tbh, If looking for reliability, your best bet would be nissan. Newer Toyota have just as many issues as Ford, and gm, and all three have less than jeep. I dnt hear about people having issues with nissan. Our armada needed the airbags replaced, but was fine after that. It seems the main problem isn't the reliability, but the service not wanting to work on them. There's good amount of people who have expys with high mileage and no problems.

If the ride is a problem, maybe swap for 18s and a thicker tire. Your not getting a better ride with the same level of room unless you go new jeep or gm, and you'd have to get the fully optioned models with the air suspension as well. The nissan or Toyota ride worse than what you have holistically. They also do not have the room as the gms or jeep.

If you can swing it, maybe a telluride, palisade, or grand highlander may be good as they have good amount room for the size.

 

[BlakeMAX2019]

The 3rd row space in the new Sequoia is TERRIBLE! Unlike ford, they transferred the Solid axle straight from the Tundra to the Sequoia. Ford wins hands down just for that. The Expy can actually fit regular size adults in the 3rd row. Otherwise I would consider it myself.

100% agree plus it doesn’t fold flat.

 

[BlakeMAX2019]

I would keep it and save the $$. This gen of Ecoboost is great after the cam phaser update. I prefer it to newer ones since it doesn’t have the EGR system.

The 10 speed may fail again in 40k miles if you got the old version of the CDF drum. For longevity consider shifting manually, using sport mode, or changing shift calibration. Anyways, you may spend another $5k in transmission service instead of $80k to prevent it.

Plus, all manufacturers now use the same suppliers. Newer Toyotas are also having HVAC issues that require tearing the dash, drivetrain issues, etc. They are not built like the old ones.

Appreciate the input, yeah not sure what tranny it has. According to the first rebuild, it was a $9k fix, warped pieces, metal shavings etc…all at 30kmi. I’ve heard of the Toyotas having issues as well…I think every car companies don’t plan on people keeping cars long anyways so no need to make them last?

 

[BlakeMAX2019]

Theoretically if you’ve had the trans and phasers done, then you’re left with a perception of unreliability and some interior issues you mention. The new Toyotas, given having a perception of reliability, are still a question mark. As mentioned above, if the 3rd row is used even ever so often, I’d get an extended warranty and keep the expedition, 80k at current rates is NOT cheap, you’ve got a much better deal financially as you sit currently. But, you’ll just have to weigh yall’s perception vs potential reality

Thank you…yes $80k after interest it’s a $110k vehicle worth $30k in 6 years if you’re lucky! Agreed on the perception of reliability on the new Toyotas, I think all new cars have some sort of issue. I guess it’s a matter of how good the dealer is in fixing it.

 

[BlakeMAX2019]

If I were you, I would purchase Ford ESP and keep the vehicle. Your vehicle is a great deal financially. From the design of the wheels, it seems yours is King Ranch. Nowadays, my 2024 XLT Max costed me a little over 70K with 6k off MSRP. I had to purchase it coz I did need a hauler for six people.

Yeah it’s tough for me to get over the interest rates these days. It’s an XLT with the 202a plus drivers alert and Nav.

 

[BlakeMAX2019]

His is an xlt with 20 in wheels. You can tell by wheels and taillight design.

As far as replacing it, it depends on what you need. Tbh, If looking for reliability, your best bet would be nissan. Newer Toyota have just as many issues as Ford, and gm, and all three have less than jeep. I dnt hear about people having issues with nissan. Our armada needed the airbags replaced, but was fine after that. It seems the main problem isn't the reliability, but the service not wanting to work on them. There's good amount of people who have expys with high mileage and no problems.

If the ride is a problem, maybe swap for 18s and a thicker tire. Your not getting a better ride with the same level of room unless you go new jeep or gm, and you'd have to get the fully optioned models with the air suspension as well. The nissan or Toyota ride worse than what you have holistically. They also do not have the room as the gms or jeep.

If you can swing it, maybe a telluride, palisade, or grand highlander may be good as they have good amount room for the size.

Thank you for the advice. We rented a Suburban at it was night and day with the ride quality. The suburban soaks up all the bumps with was and minimal jarring. But the GMs have their share of issues with the valves failing, some within a few thousand Miles, due to the AFM system which is horrible!

 

[dlcorbett]

Thank you for the advice. We rented a Suburban at it was night and day with the ride quality. The suburban soaks up all the bumps with was and minimal jarring. But the GMs have their share of issues with the valves failing, some within a few thousand Miles, due to the AFM system which is horrible!

My nav has ccd and I like vs what u have. I had a limited with the same setup as urs and the nav is better in most situations. On most days it rides as my dads new escalade which has thicker tires except the worse roads(tires does alot, i put pirellis on mine and they degraded the ride on mine very noticeably after purchase). The jeeps I've driven rides better than both on bad roads. Sometimes though it does ride badish, but ccd allows adjustment to the ride somewhat. I do agree the new gms and jeeps have way better build quality so the jitters and shaking is better nullified.

 

[wpaul]

Wow seems like your in a good spot and compared to todays prices you got a deal granted there have been some reliability issues but hopefully most of that is behind you. I have a friend who got rid of a new Tundra last year because it had been in to the dealer 20 times for repairs. Trying to get more info and will reply back. I would keep the Expedition. It’s a better vehicle in my opinion. Now if you were talking a Tacoma versus a Ranger, it would be a different situation.

 

[Craig Lasnier]

As a Ford person my entire life, I say stay with the Toyota, lose this thing. I think your wife is on the right track with the Sequoia, you can find many gently used for less than 80 grand.
I own a 99 since new. Unfortunately Fords quality and engineering went down hill big time! I will not buy another one. Best of luck.

 

[LokiWolf]

As a Ford person my entire life, I say stay with the Toyota, lose this thing. I think your wife is on the right track with the Sequoia, you can find many gently used for less than 80 grand.
I own a 99 since new. Unfortunately Fords quality and engineering went down hill big time! I will not buy another one. Best of luck.

Have you owned a Ford other than your 99? Have you read any of the groups/forums on the new Tundra's and Sequoia's? Have you sat in the 3rd row of the new Sequoia?

 

[2018ExpyPlatinum]

Wow. I could have wrote this. Mine is an 18 with 56K. No issues with the cam phasers or tranny yet or turbo waste gates. Maybe I'm just ignoring some of it. I do think the tranny is "starting". I've been kicking around getting something new, but don't like anything really. This past week I drove two Tahoes (premier and high country). They were ok. Drove a Yukon AT4 and have to be honest, I really, really liked it. Most positive comment on anything in a year.

I believe I read that Toyota is having turbo issues on the Tundra/Sequoia engines. Some folks have had issues with the 6.2L GM engine. My other issue is spending $70K to $80K for anything. I keep going back and thinking how good my Expy has been. I might just put tires on it, extend my extended, and keep it two more years and then decide. The other issue is how fast the value is dropping. In two years we will see how the reliability is on the new GX, the new Traverse. They're going to redesign the Palisade and QX80 for 26. IDK, it's all a crap shoot.

 

[wpaul]

As a Ford person my entire life, I say stay with the Toyota, lose this thing. I think your wife is on the right track with the Sequoia, you can find many gently used for less than 80 grand.
I own a 99 since new. Unfortunately Fords quality and engineering went down hill big time! I will not buy another one. Best of luck.

Just heard back from a friend who got rid of his Tundra last year because it was at the dealer 20 times for various repairs in the 1st year of ownership. His response is pasted below of some the issues he had.

“Repalced the front control arms and ball joints at 14k miles. Relaced the dash cam twice. replaced the console once. replaced the front seats twice, headliner rattled severely, replaced the fuel door actuator once. replaced the wireless charger once. 2 safety recalls with the bedliner flying off and the fire hazard with the furl line causing flames, and to be honest the truck was awful even if it didnt have problems. worst ride in its class, rode TERRIBLE, the safety feautres with the automatic braking almost got me hit twice under normal driving conditions.I have never ever owned a worse vehicle. no contest. awful abomination. Was my 9th toyota and 4th totyota truck.”

 

[19ExpMaxPlatYYC]

Same vehicle except platinum. Cam phaser replaced, transmission rebuilt without a lot of excess pain. I opted for the max extended warranty with a mid level of coverage. About $4k cdn.

My decision was driven primarily by the replacement cost. There's a pile of use left in the vehicle at a cheaper cost per km than buying new. If you've the cash to swap for possible peace of mind I say fine but I don't believe there's any value there. I was $88k cdn tax in, current MSRP with tax is $117k, no idea what the current discount is but financing $50k at 7%/60mos adds another $10k.

The crazy increase in prices in the past few years means the resale of your current vehicle will be much much more resilient to depreciation compared to the new. Basically, the new cost is going to tow yours along.

My 2 cents.

On the comments on ride, I test drove one with a towing package and it rode like a gravel truck. I'm not a Toyota guy so I'll leave it at that.